Pakistani International Students Acculturative Experiences of Studying Abroad: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors
ASMA BASHIR and RUHI KHALID
Abstract
Departure from one’s homeland to a foreign destination is a significant challenge for any international student. The transition of adjusting to a novel educational institute and its social life in the host country is an arduous task in itself. This article reviews the literature on Pakistani international students' scholastic, social, cultural, and psychological adjustment issues as they depart on their educational journey overseas. The examination also includes an assessment of social support from family and friends as well as coping mechanisms. Acculturative stress and language proficiency have been identified as crucial variables regarding Pakistani students' adjustment to a foreign country. However, with the help of family and friends, specific coping methods along with resilience tactics reduce stress and aid in their adjustment. This is the first literature review on Pakistani international students’ experiences and the challenges they face abroad. For the literature review, national and international databases such as Higher Education Commission (HEC) repository PubMed, PsycINFO, EBSCO, and CINAHL were used and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis(PRISMA) guidelines were followed for the screening of research articles. This review may assist in charting Pakistani international students' acculturation patterns in host countries. Moreover, it may also aid Pakistani educational institutions, host nations, and the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC) in developing policies for Pakistani international students overseas.
Keywords: Pakistani International Students, Educational Challenges, Discrimination, Social and Cultural Issues, Language Barriers.